You may not be a "theme park person" but I'm telling you, this is not your run-of-the-mill, stand on a concrete slab and bake for three hours to ride one rollercoaster kind of theme park. There is plenty of food, drinks, nature, rides, and shows to keep everyone entertained. Voted the Most Beautiful Theme Park 29 years in a row! There are plenty of local coupons and discounts available including AAA discounts. Fun Fact: Kristiana worked here for several seasons and a Stage Manager and Pyrotechnics Technician.
Each of our planes has been beautifully restored to its prior military condition, using original parts whenever possible. Most of the planes are airworthy and flown at the museum during flight demonstrations and at air shows throughout the year. Some being the last flight-ready aircraft of their time, and all of them being one of a kind. The museum is open to all. General admission applies for those arriving via ground transportation. Come out and see the heritage and machinery of World War I and World War II!
If you need a break from the beach. Explore over 800,000 gallons at one of the best aquariums and animal habitats in the country. Experience our hands-on exhibits, nature path, and marshlands.
Historic Jamestowne offers much to see and do. A typical visit can last 2 to 3 hours, but those wishing to delve deeper into Jamestown's history can easily spend half a day or more exploring the island. See archaeology in action as the Jamestown Rediscovery team continues to excavate parts of the island. Take a tour with an archaeologist, education specialist, or park ranger to hear about the latest discoveries.
Immerse yourself in an area as rich in American history as it is modern-day charm. Travel back to 1781 and walk in the footsteps of our nation’s Founders at Colonial National Historical Park, or explore our interactive exhibitions at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Fast-forward to the 21st century to take a stroll through along the riverfront where you can shop in our charming boutiques, dine with stunning views of York River, and swim at our public beach. Yorktown also boasts art galleries on Main Street, museums, and outdoor fun including kayaking, paddle boarding, sunset and pirate cruises at Riverwalk Landing!
With more than 112,000 acres of forested wetlands covering about 170 square miles, the Great Dismal Swamp offers hikers, birders, photographers, and butterfly chasers countless opportunities to seek out once-in-a-lifetime memories, images of pristine nature, and undisturbed wildlife. While the region’s native panthers can no longer be found, the swamp still abounds with a mind-boggling degree of biodiversity, including black bears. White-tail deer are a common sight, while sharp-eyed hikers and quick-clicking photographers can occasionally catch red foxes, beavers, river otters, bobcats, minks, and the southern flying squirrel. In fact, it can be hard to keep your eyes on the trail when so much of the beauty is in the canopy, including more than 200 species of birds, nearly 100 species of butterflies, and—when the sun starts to go down—10 different species of bats.
For beer lovers who couldn't get enough local beer at the reception, check out some local Virginia breweries. There are a lot of them! Use this website to search for breweries. There are many we recommend located in the city of Norfolk. Some of our favorite Hampton Roads breweries include: The Veil, Benchtop Brewing, Commonwealth Brewing Company, Smartmouth, Elation, Virginia Beer Company, Amber Ox and Precarious Beer Project. At Elation, say hello to Mackenzie or head to Norfolk's only rooftop beer garden, Grain, at the Norfolk Hilton The Main, and say hi to Brendan (two of Kristiana's brothers). If you need any recommendations, feel free to ask!